CVE-2001-0491 in RaidenFTPD
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in RaidenFTPD Server 2.1 before build 952 allows attackers to access files outside the ftp root via dot dot attacks, such as (1) .... in CWD, (2) .. in NLST, or (3) ... in NLST.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/04/2025
The directory traversal vulnerability identified in RaidenFTPD Server 2.1 before build 952 represents a critical security flaw that enables unauthorized access to files outside the designated FTP root directory. This vulnerability specifically affects the server's handling of dot dot sequences in various FTP commands, allowing attackers to manipulate file paths and gain access to sensitive system files that should remain restricted. The flaw exists in the server's path resolution mechanism, which fails to properly sanitize or validate directory navigation sequences before processing them. The vulnerability impacts multiple FTP commands including CWD, NLST, and potentially other directory listing operations where dot dot sequences can be injected to traverse upward through the directory structure.
This technical weakness stems from inadequate input validation and path sanitization within the RaidenFTPD server implementation. The server processes directory traversal sequences without proper boundary checking, allowing attackers to craft malicious commands that bypass normal directory restrictions. When an attacker submits commands containing sequences like .... in CWD or .. in NLST, the server interprets these as legitimate directory navigation commands but fails to enforce proper path boundaries. This creates a condition where the server's working directory can be manipulated to access files outside the intended FTP root, potentially exposing system configuration files, user data, or even system binaries. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the protocol level where the server processes user requests without sufficient validation of the path components.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows attackers to perform unauthorized file access operations that can lead to complete system compromise. An attacker could potentially access sensitive configuration files containing database credentials, user authentication information, or system settings that could be used for further exploitation. The vulnerability also enables attackers to enumerate directory structures beyond the FTP root, providing reconnaissance capabilities for more advanced attacks. Depending on the server configuration and file permissions, this could lead to data exfiltration, privilege escalation, or even remote code execution if the attacker can access system files or binaries that are executable. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the FTP service and can potentially compromise the entire hosting environment.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and path sanitization within the FTP server implementation. Organizations should immediately apply the vendor-provided patch or update to build 952 or later, which addresses the directory traversal flaw through enhanced path validation mechanisms. Network administrators should also implement additional protective measures including firewall rules to restrict FTP access, monitoring of unusual directory traversal patterns, and regular security audits of FTP server configurations. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal and follows patterns commonly associated with ATT&CK technique T1078 Valid Accounts for lateral movement. System administrators should also consider implementing principle of least privilege for FTP user accounts and regularly review access controls to minimize potential impact if the vulnerability is exploited. Additionally, organizations should implement logging and monitoring for suspicious FTP commands containing dot dot sequences to detect and respond to potential exploitation attempts.